Legendary Clay County Coach Donnie Gray Inducted into KHSAA Hall of Fame

The legacy of legendary Clay County Lady Tigers basketball coach Donnie Gray was honored Sunday, May 4, as he was posthumously inducted into the Dawahares/Kentucky High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony, held at the Central Bank Center Ballroom in Lexington, celebrated Gray’s remarkable impact on Kentucky high school basketball and his lasting influence on generations of student-athletes.

Gray’s wife, Beverly Gray, accepted the award on his behalf. Joining her were the late coach’s two children, grandchildren, and several extended family members who gathered to celebrate the momentous occasion and reflect on Gray’s storied career and enduring legacy.

Donnie Gray led the Clay County girls’ basketball team for 21 seasons, compiling an extraordinary 505-142 record, a .780 winning percentage. His teams dominated the local and regional landscape, securing 11 District 49 championships and nine Region 13 titles under his leadership. Gray’s most celebrated achievement came in 1989 when he guided the Lady Tigers to the program’s only KHSAA Girls’ Sweet 16® state championship. He followed that success with a state runner-up finish in 1992 and a semifinal appearance in 1993, solidifying Clay County’s place as a statewide powerhouse during his tenure.

Beyond the wins and titles, Gray was known for his dedication to his players, his emphasis on teamwork and discipline, and his unwavering commitment to the Clay County community. His coaching philosophy helped shape the lives of countless young women, many of whom credit him for their growth both on and off the court.

Throughout his career, Gray received widespread recognition for his excellence. He was named Associated Press Coach of the Year twice and earned Region 13 Coach of the Year honors four times. His ability to build a championship-caliber program in a small Eastern Kentucky town left a lasting imprint on high school athletics across the state.

With the addition of Donnie Gray and the 11 other members of the Class of 2025, the Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame now totals 529 inductees since its founding in 1988. The Hall of Fame, presented by Roberts Insurance, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to high school sports in Kentucky.

Gray is the fifth Clay Countian inducted into the KHSAA Hall of Fame joining Bobby Keith, Richie Farmer, Mae Hibbard-Caudill, and J.W. “Spider” Thurman.